Springfield MO schools' same-sex couples get benefits

Springfield, Mo. (AP) — Married same-sex couples will be eligible for health benefits from the Springfield school district, starting Dec. 1.

The school board on Tuesday approved an amendment to the district's health plan to include same-sex couples who are married in any state that legally recognizes their marriages.

The Springfield News-Leader reports it is unclear how many additional people would be covered by the change. The district's self-insured health plan covers about 6,000 people.

The change comes as Missouri's constitutional ban on same-sex marriage is being challenged in court. District officials say several large employers in the city and state are expanding benefits to same-sex couples, partly to attract top employees.

The change is also expected to impact on other employment policies, such as sick days and family medical leave.

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Information from: Springfield News-Leader, Springfield, MO.

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The Gayly – November 19, 2014 @ 7:55am